Breaking: Finland Four Moved Under Cover of Darkness to Greece

Back in October 2015 when we announced the closure of Finland’s only dolphinarium, located in Särkänniemi Adventure Park, we had high hopes for the four dolphins which were in urgent need of a retirement home.

It seems Särkänniemi’s idea of “retirement” involved a move of their dolphins, Veera, Delfi, Leevi and Eevertti, under the cover of darkness to the Attica Zoological Park in Athens, Greece – a move which has us deeply concerned.

The dolphins were then taken to the Tampere-Pirkkala airport where they were loaded into a waiting aircraft. Airports operator Finavia confirmed that the flight left for Athens at 4.48 am, slightly delayed from its original departure time of 4.00 am. The four animals touched down in their new country of residence Sunday morning and were then taken to the Attica Zoological Park in Spata, about 20 km northeast of Athens.” ~ source: Yle Uutiset

Between 2010 and 2015, the Attica Zoo reported that five of their captive dolphins had died. Of the ‘Finland Four,’ two elder dolphins, Veera and Delfi were captured in the Gulf of Mexico, off Pine Island, Florida in 1984. Leevi and Eevertti are both over 20 years old, born in captivity and are in questionable health.

Dolphin Project, along with other dolphin welfare organizations has been advocating for the dolphins’ release into a proper sea sanctuary, where they could live out the rest of their lives in peace and dignity. Sadly, Särkänniemi had other plans.

It might be true that we don't recall many moments from our early years. However, Cara's first memory of a dolphin had her begging her parents to ask the trainer to let the dolphin go! The problem with captivity was evident to her, even as a 4 year-old child.

A writer by trade, Cara has researched, investigated and documented dolphins suffering in captivity. From documenting dolphins incarcerated in buildings, cut-off from fresh air, sunlight and normal socialization to researching cases of animals imprisoned in solitary confinement, Cara is a dedicated dolphin welfare advocate.

It is her belief that education equals empowerment. The more information shared, the better our choices and knowledge of how to act as a positive and respectful voice for dolphins across the world.

Cara is based out of Canada and makes time whenever possible to observe dolphins in their natural environments. She is writing her first fiction novel but knowing her, the marine world will play a prominent role in her book!

"The use of animals for entertainment is nothing more than an abuse of dominance. Some of the most sentient species on the planet have been exploited to incomprehensible levels, all due to their inherent benevolence. Ironic, considering that we turn to the abused themselves for displays of humanity."
~ Cara Sands